Lower Shannon Waterways Corridor Study

Following the success of previous Waterways Corridor Studies undertaken, CSR was appointed for the final section of the Shannon River from Meelick, Co. Galway to Limerick City. The waterway projects are aimed at improving the understanding and appreciation of the corridors, ensuring retention of their heritage value, and optimising their use through appropriate management and development.

CSR refined and expanded the methodology established in earlier studies to adapt to an expanded brief. This included detailed demographic and socio-economic analysis of the corridor, particularly the tourism industry, to complement the heritage and landscape assessments and allow for fully integrated policy and action proposals. The study also involved a comprehensive public and stakeholder consultation exercise. It is intended that the study be employed by the planning authorities to inform their Development Plans and planning decisions, by Waterways Ireland, Shannon Development and other agencies to inform their management and development of the corridor, and by community and user groups to describe the resource and assist in the realisation of their aspirations for its management and development.